No EDC (everyday carry) kit is complete without a reliable pocket knife. The best EDC knives are those utility tools that you don't realize how much you need until you started carrying one for yourself. Whether it's an overzealously taped Amazon package, an itchy tag on a new sweater, or a loose thread on that slick needlepoint you just finished for your sweet ol' granny, your trusty pocket knife is ready and waiting to be of service. Not sure where to start? If you buy just one EDC blade, make it one of these.
The James Brand The Carter
Best EDC knife overall
The James Brand makes some of the swankiest EDC blades, which is why we love everything in its catalog. Touted as its "most advanced everyday-carry knife," The Carter is one of its best sellers. It's packed with every feature we care about in a pocket knife, including a VG-10 stainless steel blade, G10 or Micarta scales (your call), and a deep pocket clip for secure carry.
We especially love the thumb disc that makes this one easy to deploy with just one hand. It's also available in two sizes, two blade styles (straight or flat), and a variety of handsome colors, so you can dial in the exact Carter that fits your personal EDC.
Spyderco Para 3 Pocket Knife
Best-selling EDC knife
Spyderco's Paramilitary series of folding pocket knives are widely considered the quintessential EDC blade by hundreds of knife enthusiasts. The Para 3 builds on the popularity of the original Spyderco Paramilitary, but packs all its best features into a compact package that's under 3-inches folded and weighs just 3.4 ounces.
You still get the same premium CPM s30V steel blade, grippy G10 handle, and the trademark Spyderco "round hole" thumb deployment that makes for easy one-hand use, but thanks to its open-back design and internal steel liners, the Para 3 is the most pocket-friendly version yet.
Benchmade Bugout 535 EDC Drop-Point Pocket Knife
Most lightweight EDC knife
Benchmade is another brand that gets lots of love from the EDC enthusiast crowd, and it deserves this applause. The company has a reputation for outstanding quality, durability, and attention to detail that's won it a place in thousands of pockets, toolboxes, and backpacks around the world.
The Bugout 535 remains arguably the brand's most popular model, and it sports a premium CPM-S30V steel blade, featherlight G10 handle, and Benchmade's trademark axis locking mechanism for smooth opening and safe operation. Every Bugout is backed by Benchmade's "Lifesharp" guarantee, which means anytime your knife needs to be repaired, cleaned, or resharpened, the folks at Benchmade will handle it for you free of charge. Did we mention it weighs just 1.85 ounces?
Cold Steel Recon 1 Spear Point
Best value tactical EDC knife
If you're ready to step up to high-grade steel but aren't looking to go too much over the $100 mark, the Cold Steel Recon 1 is one of the best EDC knives at this price point. For your money, you get 4 inches of DLC-coated S35VN steel, which holds an edge with the best of them while also being highly tough and corrosion-resistant.
S35VN is also easier to sharpen than many premium types of steel, which makes it an ideal entry-level EDC for enthusiasts and beginners alike. Safety comes courtesy of an ultra reliable TriAd locking system, which is an important detail for anyone who enjoys using their fingers to count to 10.
QSP Penguin Pocket Knife
Best budget EDC knife
When it comes to knife steels, you generally get what you pay for. If you opt for the QSP Penguin, however, you can absolutely have your cake and eat it too. That's because although the Penguin costs roughly what you'd pay for typical utility steel, it sports an upgraded D2 blade, which is known for outstanding edge retention and added toughness.
Combine that with a grippy (and good-looking!) micarta handle available in more than a dozen colors, a reversible pocket clip that works for both left- and right-handed users, and a sheep's-foot-style blade that's easy to sharpen, and you might just have the best EDC knife deal on the market.
Kershaw Shuffle DIY
Best compact EDC knife
We can't talk about some of the best pocket knives without mentioning at least one Kershaw blade. The compact Kershaw Shuffle DIY folder is one of the best EDC knives on a budget that money can buy. The 2.4-inch blade is made from reliable 8CR13MOV steel, which locks into place using the brand's sturdy "liner lock" internal plate system.
he handle is made from glass-reinforced nylon, which gives excellent grip when wet or dry without feeling overly abrasive in the hand. We particularly love that the DIY version of Kershaw's classic Shuffle also includes both a bottle opener and two screwdrivers in the handle, which makes it an incredibly useful tool for all sorts of everyday tasks.
Leatherman Skeletool KBX Folder
Best minimalist EDC knife
If you're interested in a super light, super compact EDC knife, legendary multitool craftsmen Leatherman has you covered. The Skeletool KBX is their take on the essential minimalist folding knife, which makes it a favorite of hikers, backpackers, and anyone who like their daily carry as light as possible.
Weighing in at just 1.3 ounces, the Skeletool KBX is barely noticeable in your pocket and fits into even the most "fitted" pants out there thanks to its 3.45-inch length and 1.18-inch thickness. The blade itself is made from 420HC, a great all-around workhorse steel that's tough, easy to sharpen, and imminently affordable. Did we mention it has a bottle opener, too?
Opinel No. 8 Pocket Knife
Best classic EDC knife
Few EDCs are as widely revered as the Opinel folder. Where most EDC knives sport a style that screams "TACTICAL AF," the Opinel No. 8 holds its tongue with a warm beechwood handle and polished steel blade that feels instantly classic. The folks at Opinel have been making these knives for well over 100 years, and many a No. 8 has been passed down for a generation or two.
Don't be put off by the budget price tag: This simple carbon steel blade will last decades with proper sharpening and picks up a handsome patina after a few years of ownership.
Need an EDC but prefer a fixed blade? Check out our rundown on the best fixed-blade knives. If you've got any travel plans in the near future, you may also want to consider a multitool that's TSA-friendly to avoid any extended pat-downs before your next flight.
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